GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) -- A new study from Grand Valley State University says The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, has prevented employers from adding at least 1,000 workers.

Grand Valley economics professors Leslie Muller and Paul Isely, in collaboration with Priority Health, surveyed area employers about the ACA in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon and Allegan Counties. "Firms are choosing not to hire more workers in reaction to the Affordable Care Act," said Muller. "Conservatively, there would be 1,000 more workers today in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon and Allegan counties if not for the ACA."

Muller says the survey does not take into account employers who have made workers part-time to avoid costs associated with Obamacare.

The study also found:

93% of companies with 50 or more employees currently offer health care.

49% have already passed additional health care costs to workers and 40% are considering that option.

30% of firms in West Michigan are uncertain about offering health insurance in 2015.